Beacons of hope

Photos Wee Teck Hian

WHEN the red button is hit, an SMS alert is sent to all community leaders in the area who will then rush to the scene to ascertain if anyone needs help.

As part of its efforts to get the community involved in fighting crime, the police are holding trials on a new neighbourhood emergencies alert beacon (pictures) that will be placed in parks.

Two such beacons, standing waist-high and in striking red, have been placed in Alexandra Park. The police also plan to install them at the Ulu Pandan Park Connector and Clementi Woods Park soon.

Another initiative launched recently to reach out to younger and Net-savvy Singaporeans: A Singapore Police Force Facebook page containing crime prevention videos and messages; and appeals for information on unsolved cases.

The page on the popular social networking website now boasts of more than 3,800 fans since its launch in January.

The police’s Youtube channel, which was launched last year and now has 33 videos, has been viewed more than 66,000 times.

Deputy Prime Minister and Home Affairs Minister Wong Kan Seng said the police must “continue to adapt and evolve, especially in tapping on new technologies and channels to reach out to the community.” TEO XUANWEI

From TODAY, News – Friday, 17-April-2009